King Charles I

Lesson 2: Adult

Adult - Quotes

‘Very grave and polite’ a description of Charles while carrying out official business.

‘To be overt in expressing his nature, or free in venting his purpose, is a thing of dangerous consequence; he that weareth his heart on his forehead and is of an overt and transparent nature, through whose words as though cristall, ye may see into every corner of his thoughts.’ Book dedicated to young Charles, now a teenager. These words made a great impression on Charles and we can see that Charles’s public and private characters possibly may be a result of adapting this view.

‘Very robust’ The Venetian Ambassadors description of Charles, who was now strengthening himself through his determination to succeed physically and mentally.

‘I must praise his accomplishments, his skill in riding, running at the ring etc. He had far more understanding than the late prince (Henry) at his age and is in behaviours, very sober, grave, sweete.’ Description of Charles by Dr. George Carlton.

'The authority of a king is the keystone which closeth up the arch of order and government.' Comment by the Earl of Strafford, the greatest of Charles's ministers following Buckingham's death, but whom he was not close to personally. Charles was never again so close to any minister after Buckingham's death.

'The marks of my favours that stop malicious tongues are neither places nor titles, but the little welcome I give to accusers and the willing ear I give to my servants.' Charles to the Earl of Strafford, politely turning down his suggestion for a peerage for himself. This is interesting in its view of how Charles rewards those he favours.

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